Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A network device, comprising: a processor; and a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a program to be executed by the processor, the program including instructions for: determining a plurality of compositions of functions available in a telecommunication network to which the network device belongs, based on a set of functions available in the telecommunication network, wherein the set of functions comprises a plurality of access functions and a plurality of network functions, and wherein each composition of the plurality of compositions of functions is different from one another, and each composition is uniquely identified by an identifier; providing for a terminal equipment, which is in the telecommunication network, a composition of functions from the plurality of compositions of functions available in the telecommunication network, based on an access function from the plurality of access functions and a network function from the plurality of network functions applicable to the terminal equipment; and making available, to the terminal equipment, information of the composition of functions provided for the terminal equipment, wherein the information comprises an identifier of each composition of functions provided for the terminal equipment; receiving a request from the terminal equipment to use the composition of functions provided for the terminal equipment; and responding to the request from the terminal equipment.
Telecommunications network management. This invention addresses the problem of efficiently managing and providing access to complex combinations of network functions for terminal equipment. A network device includes a processor and computer-readable storage containing a program. This program instructs the processor to identify numerous distinct arrangements of available telecommunication network functions. These functions include access functions and general network functions. Each unique arrangement is distinguished by an identifier. The device then selects and offers a specific function arrangement to terminal equipment within the network. This selection is based on the terminal equipment's applicable access function and network function. Furthermore, the device makes information about the provided function arrangement available to the terminal equipment, including its unique identifier. Finally, the device receives requests from the terminal equipment to utilize the offered function arrangement and provides appropriate responses to those requests.
2. The network device of claim 1 , wherein the program further includes instructions for selecting a radio access technology (RAT) for the composition of functions provided for the terminal equipment, by selecting: a modulation scheme from a plurality of modulation schemes supported by a plurality of air interfaces of the telecommunication network; a coding scheme from a plurality of coding schemes supported by the plurality of air interfaces of the telecommunication network; a frequency from a plurality of frequencies supported by the plurality of air interfaces of the telecommunication network; or a waveform for data signal transmission from a plurality of waveforms for data signal transmission supported by the plurality of air interfaces of the telecommunication network; and wherein the information, which is made available to the terminal equipment, further comprises information relating to the modulation scheme, the coding scheme, the frequency or the waveform for data signal transmission that is selected for the composition of functions provided for the terminal equipment.
This invention relates to a network device in a telecommunication network that optimizes communication parameters for terminal equipment. The device includes a program with instructions for selecting a radio access technology (RAT) configuration tailored to the terminal equipment. The selection process involves choosing a modulation scheme, coding scheme, frequency, or waveform for data transmission from the options supported by the network's air interfaces. The selected parameters are then communicated to the terminal equipment, enabling it to adapt its communication functions accordingly. This approach allows the network to dynamically adjust transmission characteristics based on the terminal's capabilities and network conditions, improving efficiency and performance. The solution addresses the challenge of optimizing air interface parameters in heterogeneous networks with diverse terminal equipment, ensuring compatibility and efficient resource utilization. The network device's program ensures that the terminal equipment receives the necessary information to configure its communication functions, such as the selected modulation, coding, frequency, or waveform, enabling seamless and efficient data transmission.
3. The network device of claim 1 , wherein the instructions for responding to the request comprise instructions for accepting the request for the composition of functions, rejecting the request for the composition of functions, or redirecting the request to another composition of functions.
This invention relates to network devices configured to manage and process requests for function composition in a distributed computing environment. The problem addressed is the need for efficient handling of function composition requests, including acceptance, rejection, or redirection, to optimize resource utilization and system performance. The network device includes a processor and memory storing instructions that, when executed, enable the device to receive a request for composing multiple functions into a single executable function. The instructions further allow the device to respond to the request by either accepting it, rejecting it, or redirecting it to another composition of functions. Acceptance involves executing the composition, while rejection may occur due to resource constraints or policy violations. Redirection is used when the request can be better handled by an alternative composition, improving efficiency and scalability. The device may also include a communication interface for transmitting and receiving data, and a storage module for storing function definitions and composition rules. The instructions for responding to requests are designed to ensure that the composition process adheres to predefined criteria, such as compatibility, performance, or security requirements. This approach enhances flexibility and reliability in distributed computing systems by dynamically managing function composition requests.
4. The network device of claim 3 , wherein the instructions for responding to the request comprise instructions for determining whether the composition of functions, which is requested, has sufficient resources to establish a connection to the terminal equipment; and wherein the instructions for redirecting the request to another composition of functions comprise instructions for sending to the terminal equipment a unique identifier of the other composition of functions when it is determined that there are insufficient resources to establish the connection to the terminal equipment for the composition of functions that is requested.
This invention relates to network devices that manage function compositions in a distributed computing environment. The problem addressed is ensuring reliable connectivity between terminal equipment and function compositions, particularly when resource constraints prevent direct connections. The network device includes instructions for handling requests from terminal equipment to access a specific composition of functions. When a request is received, the device checks whether the requested function composition has sufficient resources to establish a connection. If resources are insufficient, the device redirects the request to an alternative composition of functions. During redirection, the device sends a unique identifier of the alternative composition to the terminal equipment, enabling it to reconnect. This ensures seamless access to the desired functions even when the initially requested composition lacks available resources. The solution improves system reliability and user experience by dynamically rerouting requests to available resources.
5. The network device of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of access functions in the set of functions comprises: physical access of the terminal equipment to a first node and a second network node; or radio connection management; and wherein the plurality of network functions in the set of functions comprises: forwarding path management; address resolution; address allocation; tracking area management; paging management; handover management; relaying; data packet forwarding; authentication of the terminal equipment; authorization of the terminal equipment; or access stratum security management.
This invention relates to a network device designed to enhance the functionality and efficiency of wireless communication systems, particularly in managing access and network functions for terminal equipment. The device addresses challenges in modern networks where terminal equipment must seamlessly interact with multiple network nodes while maintaining secure and efficient communication. The network device includes a set of functions that can be dynamically allocated to different network nodes. These functions are categorized into access functions and network functions. Access functions include physical access control for terminal equipment to multiple network nodes, such as a first and a second node, and radio connection management. Network functions encompass a range of critical operations, including forwarding path management, address resolution, address allocation, tracking area management, paging management, handover management, relaying, data packet forwarding, authentication of terminal equipment, authorization of terminal equipment, and access stratum security management. By distributing these functions across network nodes, the device optimizes resource utilization, reduces latency, and improves overall network performance. The dynamic allocation of functions allows for flexible and scalable network operations, ensuring that terminal equipment can efficiently access network services while maintaining security and reliability. This approach is particularly beneficial in heterogeneous network environments where different nodes may have varying capabilities and roles.
6. The network device of claim 1 , wherein a composition of functions comprises the plurality of access functions and the plurality of network functions needed for providing a predefined service.
A network device is configured to provide a predefined service by executing a composition of functions, which includes a plurality of access functions and a plurality of network functions. The access functions facilitate communication between the network device and user devices, while the network functions handle core networking tasks such as routing, security, and data processing. The composition of these functions enables the network device to deliver the predefined service efficiently. The network device dynamically selects and combines the necessary access and network functions based on service requirements, ensuring optimal performance and resource utilization. This approach allows for flexible service deployment, scalability, and adaptability to different network conditions. The system may also include mechanisms to monitor and adjust the composition of functions in real-time to maintain service quality. The invention addresses the challenge of efficiently providing services in complex network environments by modularizing and dynamically composing the required functions.
7. The network device of claim 1 , wherein the telecommunication network further comprises a plurality of network nodes capable of computing, data storage or packet forwarding, and wherein the plurality of network nodes are configured to virtualize each function in the set of functions that are available in the telecommunication network.
This invention relates to a network device in a telecommunication network, addressing the challenge of efficiently managing and virtualizing network functions. The network includes multiple nodes capable of computing, data storage, or packet forwarding, and these nodes are configured to virtualize each function available in the telecommunication network. Virtualization allows network functions to be decoupled from physical hardware, enabling flexible deployment, scalability, and resource optimization. The network nodes can dynamically allocate and manage virtualized functions based on demand, improving network efficiency and reducing operational costs. This approach supports software-defined networking (SDN) and network function virtualization (NFV) principles, where network services are abstracted from underlying hardware, allowing for rapid provisioning and seamless integration of new services. The system enhances network agility, reduces hardware dependencies, and simplifies maintenance by centralizing function management. The virtualized functions may include routing, switching, security, or other telecommunication services, ensuring adaptability to evolving network requirements. This solution is particularly useful in modern telecommunication networks that require high scalability, cost efficiency, and rapid service deployment.
8. The network device of claim 1 , wherein the instructions for providing, for the terminal equipment, the plurality of compositions of functions comprise instructions for determining which are allowed to be used by the terminal equipment, amongst the plurality of compositions of functions that are available in the telecommunication network.
This invention relates to network devices in telecommunication systems, specifically addressing the management of function compositions for terminal equipment. The problem solved is the need to efficiently control and provide multiple compositions of functions to terminal equipment within a telecommunication network, ensuring only authorized compositions are accessible. The network device includes instructions for providing terminal equipment with a plurality of function compositions available in the telecommunication network. These instructions determine which compositions are permitted for use by the terminal equipment, filtering out unauthorized or unavailable options. The device also includes instructions for receiving a request from the terminal equipment to use a specific function composition, validating the request, and providing the requested composition if authorized. Additionally, the device may include instructions for receiving a request to modify a function composition, validating the modification request, and applying the modification if authorized. The network device further includes instructions for receiving a request to delete a function composition, validating the deletion request, and removing the composition if authorized. The device may also include instructions for receiving a request to create a new function composition, validating the creation request, and generating the new composition if authorized. The instructions ensure that all function compositions are managed securely and only authorized compositions are provided to the terminal equipment.
9. The network device of claim 1 , wherein the instructions for making available, to the terminal equipment, the information of the composition of functions provided for the terminal equipment comprises instructions for broadcasting the information in an air interface.
A network device is configured to provide terminal equipment with information about the composition of functions available to the terminal equipment. The device includes a processor and memory storing instructions that, when executed, enable the device to broadcast this information over an air interface. The air interface allows wireless communication between the network device and the terminal equipment, ensuring that the function composition data is accessible to multiple devices simultaneously. This broadcast mechanism eliminates the need for individual requests, reducing latency and improving efficiency in dynamic network environments. The terminal equipment can then use this information to optimize its operations, such as selecting appropriate services or adjusting its configuration based on the available functions. The broadcast method ensures scalability, as the same information is disseminated to all relevant devices without requiring dedicated connections. This approach is particularly useful in scenarios where multiple devices need to synchronize their functionality or adapt to changing network conditions. The network device may also include additional features, such as processing requests from terminal equipment or managing network resources, to support seamless communication and service delivery.
10. The network device of claim 1 , wherein the instructions for determining the plurality of compositions of functions available in the telecommunication network comprise instructions for providing a basic composition of functions which is allowed to be used by the terminal equipment and all other terminal equipments in the telecommunication network with the network device.
This invention relates to network devices in telecommunication networks, specifically addressing the management and provision of function compositions for terminal equipment. The problem solved is the need to efficiently determine and provide standardized sets of functions that can be used by multiple terminal devices within the network, ensuring compatibility and proper resource allocation. The network device includes instructions for determining available function compositions in the telecommunication network. A key feature is the ability to provide a basic composition of functions that is universally allowed for use by a specific terminal equipment and all other terminal equipments connected to the network device. This basic composition serves as a foundational set of functions that ensures interoperability and consistent performance across different devices. The network device may also include additional instructions for managing more complex or specialized function compositions, allowing for flexibility in network operations while maintaining a standardized baseline for all connected terminal equipment. By defining a basic function composition that is universally accessible, the invention simplifies network management and reduces the risk of conflicts or incompatibilities between different terminal devices. This approach enhances efficiency and reliability in telecommunication networks by ensuring that all devices have access to a consistent set of essential functions.
11. A terminal equipment, comprising: a processor; and a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a program to be executed by the processor, the program including instructions for: establishing a communicative connection to a telecommunication network, wherein a set of functions, which are available in the telecommunication network, comprises a plurality of access functions and a plurality of network functions; receiving, from a network device in the telecommunication network with the terminal equipment, a unique identifier of a composition of functions provided for the terminal equipment, out of a plurality of compositions of functions that are determined based on the set of functions available in the telecommunication network, wherein each composition of the plurality of compositions of functions is different from one another, and each composition is uniquely identified by an identifier, wherein the composition of functions provided for the terminal equipment is based on an access function from the plurality of access functions and a network function from the plurality of network functions applicable to the terminal equipment, and wherein the unique identifier is comprised in information, which is made available by the network device to the terminal equipment, of the composition of functions provided for the terminal equipment; selecting which of the composition of functions to use from the composition of functions provided by the network device; sending a request to the network device to use the composition of functions that is selected, wherein the request comprises a unique identifier of the composition of functions that is selected; and receiving a response from the network device to the request.
This invention relates to terminal equipment in a telecommunication network, addressing the challenge of efficiently managing and utilizing available network functions and access functions. The terminal equipment includes a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a program executed by the processor. The program enables the terminal equipment to establish a communicative connection to a telecommunication network, where the network provides a set of functions comprising multiple access functions and multiple network functions. A network device in the telecommunication network sends a unique identifier of a specific composition of functions assigned to the terminal equipment. This composition is selected from a plurality of possible function compositions, each uniquely identified and determined based on the available network functions and access functions. The composition assigned to the terminal equipment is tailored to its specific access function and applicable network functions. The terminal equipment receives this identifier as part of information provided by the network device, selects a desired composition of functions from the available options, and sends a request to the network device to use the selected composition, including the unique identifier of that composition. The network device then responds to this request, allowing the terminal equipment to utilize the selected functions. This system enables dynamic and efficient function management in telecommunication networks.
12. The terminal equipment of claim 11 , wherein the instructions for selecting comprise instructions for making a selection based on a service requirement of an application running on the terminal equipment, or based on information preconfigured on the terminal equipment.
This invention relates to terminal equipment configured to select a network access technology (RAT) for communication. The problem addressed is efficiently determining the optimal RAT for an application running on the terminal equipment, considering factors like service requirements or preconfigured settings. The terminal equipment includes a processor and memory storing instructions for selecting a RAT. The selection is based on either the service requirements of an application running on the device or preconfigured information stored on the terminal. The selection process ensures the chosen RAT meets the application's performance needs, such as latency, bandwidth, or reliability, while also considering user preferences or network conditions. The terminal equipment may also include instructions for determining available RATs and evaluating their suitability before making a selection. This approach optimizes network resource usage and improves application performance by dynamically adapting to changing conditions or requirements. The invention is particularly useful in multi-RAT environments where multiple network technologies, such as 4G, 5G, or Wi-Fi, are available, and the terminal must choose the most appropriate one for the current use case.
13. The terminal equipment of claim 11 , wherein the program further comprises instructions for attaching to more than one composition of functions of a plurality of composition of functions provided for the terminal equipment, by sending respective attachment requests to the more than one compositions of functions.
This invention relates to terminal equipment in a communication system, specifically addressing the need for flexible and dynamic attachment to multiple function compositions. The terminal equipment includes a program with instructions for attaching to more than one composition of functions from a plurality of available function compositions. Each attachment is initiated by sending a respective attachment request to the desired function compositions. The terminal equipment is configured to receive and process these function compositions, which may include various services or capabilities provided by the communication system. The invention enables the terminal equipment to dynamically select and attach to different function compositions as needed, improving adaptability and resource utilization. The program instructions handle the attachment process, ensuring seamless integration with the selected function compositions. This approach allows the terminal equipment to leverage multiple function compositions simultaneously, enhancing its operational flexibility and efficiency in a communication network. The invention is particularly useful in systems where terminal equipment must interact with diverse and evolving function compositions, ensuring robust and scalable performance.
14. The terminal equipment of claim 11 , wherein, when the response comprises a redirection of the request to another composition of functions, the program comprises instructions for attaching to the other composition of functions indicated in the redirection.
This invention relates to terminal equipment in a distributed computing environment, specifically addressing the challenge of dynamically managing and redirecting function compositions in response to requests. The terminal equipment is configured to send a request to a composition of functions, where the composition represents a set of interconnected computational or service functions. The equipment receives a response that may include a redirection to another composition of functions, indicating that the original request should be processed by a different set of functions. In such cases, the terminal equipment is programmed to automatically attach to the redirected composition of functions, ensuring seamless continuation of the request processing without manual intervention. This dynamic redirection capability allows for flexible and efficient routing of requests, particularly in environments where function compositions may change or be optimized in real-time. The terminal equipment may also include mechanisms for handling errors, validating responses, and maintaining session continuity during redirection. The invention improves the adaptability and reliability of distributed systems by enabling automatic re-routing of requests to alternative function compositions as needed.
15. A method, comprising: receiving, by a terminal equipment, a plurality of identifiers of a plurality of compositions of functions allowed to the terminal equipment in a telecommunication network, wherein the plurality of compositions of functions is comprised in a plurality of compositions of functions that is available in the telecommunication network; selecting, by the terminal equipment, from the plurality of compositions of functions allowed to the terminal equipment, a composition of functions; requesting, by the terminal equipment, to use the composition of functions that is selected, by referring to an identifier that is unique to the composition of functions that is selected; and receiving, by the terminal equipment, a response from a network device to a request to use the composition of functions that is selected; wherein the telecommunication network is implemented on a software defined network (SDN); wherein the telecommunication network is capable of providing a plurality of compositions of functions that are different from one another; wherein each composition of the plurality of compositions of functions is identified by a unique identifier; and wherein each composition of the plurality of compositions of functions comprises an access function from a plurality of access functions and a network function from a plurality of network functions available in the telecommunication network.
This invention relates to a method for managing and utilizing different compositions of functions in a software-defined telecommunication network. The problem addressed is the need for terminal equipment to dynamically select and request specific combinations of access and network functions from a pool of available options in an SDN environment. The telecommunication network provides multiple distinct compositions of functions, each identified by a unique identifier. Each composition includes at least one access function from a set of available access functions and one network function from a set of available network functions. Terminal equipment receives a list of allowed compositions, selects one, and requests its use by referencing its unique identifier. The network then responds to this request, enabling the selected composition of functions. This approach allows flexible and dynamic configuration of terminal equipment capabilities within the network, leveraging the programmability of SDN to offer customized service combinations. The method ensures efficient resource allocation and service provisioning by enabling terminal equipment to choose from predefined, identifiable function compositions.
16. The method of claim 15 , wherein selecting, by the terminal equipment, the composition of functions comprises making a selection based on a service requirement of an application running on the terminal equipment, or based on information preconfigured on the terminal equipment.
This invention relates to terminal equipment in wireless communication systems, specifically methods for dynamically selecting and composing functions to optimize performance based on service requirements or preconfigured settings. The problem addressed is the need for terminal equipment to adapt its operational functions to varying application demands or predefined configurations, ensuring efficient resource utilization and service quality. The method involves terminal equipment analyzing service requirements of active applications or referencing preconfigured information to determine the optimal composition of functions. These functions may include communication protocols, processing tasks, or hardware configurations. By dynamically adjusting the function composition, the terminal equipment can balance performance, power consumption, and network resource usage according to the specific needs of the application or system settings. This approach enhances flexibility and efficiency in wireless communication environments, particularly where multiple applications with diverse requirements coexist on a single device. The selection process ensures that the terminal equipment operates in a manner that aligns with either real-time application demands or predefined operational parameters, improving overall system responsiveness and reliability.
17. The method of claim 15 , further comprising: attaching to a composition of functions that the terminal equipment is able to use, according to the response received from the network device.
This invention relates to a method for managing function composition in a networked system, particularly for terminal equipment interacting with network devices. The problem addressed is the efficient and dynamic attachment of function compositions to terminal equipment based on responses from network devices, enabling flexible and adaptive functionality. The method involves a terminal equipment receiving a response from a network device, where the response includes information about available functions or services. Based on this response, the terminal equipment attaches to a specific composition of functions that it is capable of using. This composition may include multiple functions that are logically or operationally grouped together to perform a task or provide a service. The attachment process ensures that the terminal equipment can utilize the appropriate functions as needed, optimizing performance and resource usage. The method may also include determining the compatibility or suitability of the function composition for the terminal equipment, ensuring that only relevant and usable functions are attached. This dynamic attachment mechanism allows the terminal equipment to adapt to changing network conditions or available services, improving system flexibility and efficiency. The invention is particularly useful in environments where terminal equipment must interact with multiple network devices and services, requiring seamless and efficient function management.
18. The method of claim 15 , wherein selecting comprises selecting more than one composition of functions of the plurality of compositions of functions; and wherein the method further comprises: attaching to the more than one composition of functions that is selected, by sending respective attachment requests to the more than one compositions of functions.
This invention relates to a method for managing and executing compositions of functions in a distributed computing environment. The problem addressed is the efficient selection and attachment of multiple function compositions to perform complex tasks across distributed systems. The method involves selecting more than one composition of functions from a plurality of available compositions. Each composition consists of a set of interconnected functions designed to perform specific tasks. The selection process identifies the most suitable compositions based on predefined criteria, such as performance, availability, or compatibility. Once selected, the method attaches to the chosen compositions by sending individual attachment requests to each. These requests establish connections between the system and the selected compositions, enabling the system to execute the functions as needed. The method ensures that multiple compositions can be managed and executed in parallel, improving efficiency and scalability in distributed computing environments. The invention is particularly useful in systems where tasks require the coordination of multiple functions across different nodes or services.
19. The method of claim 15 , wherein, when the response comprises a redirection to another composition of functions other than the composition of functions that is requested, the method further comprises attaching to the other composition of functions indicated in the redirection.
This invention relates to a system for dynamically composing and executing functions in a distributed computing environment. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and flexible function composition, where functions can be dynamically combined and executed based on runtime conditions, including handling redirections to alternative function compositions. The method involves receiving a request to execute a composition of functions, where each function is a discrete unit of executable code. The system processes the request by determining the appropriate functions to execute based on predefined rules or runtime conditions. If the response to the request includes a redirection to a different composition of functions, the system automatically attaches to and executes the alternative composition instead of the originally requested one. This allows for dynamic re-routing of function execution paths, enabling adaptive behavior in response to changing conditions or requirements. The method ensures seamless integration of the alternative composition, maintaining continuity in the execution flow. This approach is particularly useful in cloud computing, microservices architectures, and other distributed systems where flexibility and adaptability are critical.
20. The method of claim 15 , wherein receiving the plurality of identifiers of the plurality of compositions of functions allowed to the terminal equipment, comprise receiving the plurality of identifiers that are broadcast by network device in an air interface.
This invention relates to a system for managing and broadcasting identifiers of function compositions in a network, particularly for terminal equipment. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and secure distribution of function composition identifiers to terminal equipment, ensuring that only authorized functions are accessible. The solution involves a network device broadcasting these identifiers over an air interface, allowing terminal equipment to receive and process them. The function compositions define sets of operations or services that the terminal equipment is permitted to execute. By broadcasting the identifiers, the system ensures that the terminal equipment can dynamically access updated function compositions without requiring direct communication for each update. This approach improves scalability and reduces overhead in the network. The method includes receiving the broadcasted identifiers, which may be encoded or formatted in a specific way to ensure integrity and security. The terminal equipment then uses these identifiers to determine which functions it is allowed to perform, enabling flexible and secure function management in a networked environment. The broadcast mechanism ensures that all connected terminal equipment receive the same set of identifiers, maintaining consistency across the network.
Unknown
October 13, 2020
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